Red-backed Pyrausta
Common NameRed-backed Pyrausta
Scientific NamePyrausta dapalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsred, black, dark brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsMonarda, Mentha, Salvia
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on various plants, particularly in the mint family, before pupating into adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark forewings contrasting sharply with bright red hindwings that have a broad black border and a central black spot. Can be confused with *Pyrausta phoenicealis*, but *dapalis* typically has more extensive dark scaling on the forewings.
Description
A small moth characterized by its dark, mottled forewings and vibrant scarlet red hindwings, which are prominently bordered in black and feature a distinct black discal spot.
